Horoscope for Sept. 7, 2011

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Do not take on an assignment that must be completed today if you're not sure you can do it in time. It's better to be honest up front rather than make yourself look bad by falling short.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- You'll not mind helping out another as long as the act is voluntary. Being manipulated by another to do his or her bidding, however, is likely to make you extremely resentful.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -- Keep your obligations to friends in proper perspective. Don't rush to help someone you want to impress but who has done nothing for you, while ignoring a pal to whom you're truly indebted.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- If success eludes you, it isn't likely to be because you're unwilling to work hard. It may be due to the fact that your focus is more on fun and games than on your obligations.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- It's never smart to debate philosophical issues because there is no solving them. Chances are each side can get too emotionally involved and end up exchanging bitter words.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -- Parity will be required in order for a joint endeavor to be successful. If you're not willing to give as much as the other guy or gal puts toward a project, don't get involved in the first place.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- You could easily thwart your own purposes by being unduly aggressive. Slow down and take it easy because trying too hard can be as ineffective as not trying at all.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- Understate your sales pitch and let the listener fill in the blanks with what they want. Sometimes a soft sell is the most effective weapon in your arsenal.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- Just because someone is a good friend is not reason enough to ask financial advice from him or her. Make sure the person you go to has the experience to advise you wisely.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- Put your mind in gear before you open your mouth and start talking. If you don't, all kinds of things could come out, such as some ill-chosen words that would offend whomever hears them.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -- One of your favorite friends, who's always in a financial bind, might hit on you once again to bail him or her out. It's time to put limits on how much and how often you can do so.